Antisemitism. Child Labor. Social Justice. These are some of the issues that have always been critically important to me - to understand, to work towards, or to fight against. So when these problems are explored in a beautifully written, fantastical story about one child’s struggle with her position in society and her relationship with an unconventional new friend, I want nothing more than to shout about it from the rooftops and share it with every child, parent and educator I can. Enter Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster, by Jonathan Auxier. When I tell you this book sucked me in and I couldn’t put it down, I speak the honest truth. I was utterly captivated, from beginning to end, and I now want to read every single story ever written by Auxier. What a brilliant writer!

Sweep is the story of Nan Sparrow, an orphaned chimney sweeper who spends her days performing a thankless — and wholly dangerous — job. After her “Sweep” leaves her, and after she almost loses her life in a chimney fire, Nan fears her days are numbered. But when she awakens in an abandoned attic and discovers a golem made of soot and ash in the room with her, she begins a new life full of hope, friendship and the courage to conquer her greatest challenges.

I love stories that teach without being didactic, ones that encourage you to make new discoveries every time you open their pages. Sweep is that and so much more - a book that tackles tough topics and follows Nan as she puts one foot in front of the other after facing so many unspeakable losses. Sweep is separated into two sections, appropriately called Innocence and Experience, and they so beautifully illuminate Nan’s journey from a guileless young child to a tween fraught with complicated questions and even more troubling realizations about society and her place within it. Why are children forced to work dangerous jobs? Why are kids losing their lives due to nothing but their unfortunate lot in life, and what on earth can she do to change it?

Simply put, Sweep is a feat. It is an adventure of the greatest kind, an ode to friendship, a discovery of self, and a testament to the power of one voice to create change. But my favorite part? Sweep excels in its exploration of “monsters,” finds tenderness in the terrifying, and combats all of our preconceived notions about the frightening things that keep us up at night. Exquisite - this marvel will stay with me for a long, long time.

I love stories about kindness that simultaneously show children how acts of generosity can impact a person so profoundly. Thank You, Omu! Is a new favorite children’s book that handles this topic exquisitely. Check it out!

There’s something about Those Shoes, written by Maribeth Boelts and illustrated by Noah Z. Jones, that calls to me every November. And so each year, the week before Thanksgiving hits, this is the book I pull out to read to every single one of my elementary school classes. And each time, without fail, when my students see me pull the book out from behind me, they clap and cheer. Those Shoes is beloved by our school, and it fills me with such joy to see student reactions to this story.

Jeremy wants nothing more than the same pair of shoes that the rest of the kids at school wear. But, according to his grandma, Jeremy’s “wants” are not nearly as important as his “needs.” When his shoes fall apart at school, Jeremy is both ashamed and embarrassed that he has to wear babyish sneakers given to him by the school guidance counselor. So when his grandma takes him to the thrift stores, Jeremy is in heaven when he finds a pair of THOSE SHOES- and he buys them with his own money even though they are too small and destroy his feet. Leave it to grandma, though, to sneak a new pair of warm snow boots into Jeremy’s closet. What happens when Jeremy’s friend, Antonio, the only boy who didn’t laugh at Jeremy’s babyish shoes, comes to school with taped up sneakers, and his feet are noticeably smaller than Jeremy’s?

Those Shoes is an honest and poignant story. Before I begin reading this with students, I always start with a discussion of the differences between wants and needs- it provides such an amazing entryway into the book. After we read, the maturity and depth of conversation usually skyrockets. Why? Because the book so beautifully conveys that the things Jeremy has - family, new snow boots to protect his feet, and the opportunity to help someone in distress - truly are more valuable than holding on to something he wants because it’s “cool.” Often times, the things we so desperately “want” don’t bring us nearly as much fulfillment as the things we need. You can practically see the wheels spinning in the kids’ heads after they read this book! Those Shoes offers a perfect segue into a discussion of gratitude and the countless things we have to be thankful for. It also reminds us that there are so many ways we can help others less fortunate during the holiday season and all year round.

Want to #gettrunky* with it? Here’s an easy and quick idea. If you are an educator, use the Padlet app (it’s free!) and create a Gratitude Wall. I used a simple prompt- “what is one thing you are thankful for and why?” I made sure to limit student responses so they would have to think more deeply - thus, they were not allowed to answer with “family,” “friends” or “food.” Using their school devices, the students could write, draw, photograph or video their responses. The result? A beautiful, interactive bulletin board, showcasing the things our students value most, from backpacks (because they hold tools used to create!) to names of teachers (because they teach us and help us learn every single day), to the ability to dance (because dancing is a way to express myself). The results will both astonish and surprise you.

Wow. WOW. It is not very often that I finish a book and want nothing more then to pick it right back up again, flip back to page 1, and read it cover to cover just one more time. But that’s exactly how I felt when I put down Harbor Me, a stunning new novel by Jacqueline Woodson. If I have said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times: Woodson is a gift to literature. Her words resonate deeply, and she possesses an extraordinary ability to tap into timely, almost desperate situations in a manner appropriate and gentle enough for young kids to grasp.

In Harbor Me, six children are taken to their school’s old art room and told it’s a place for them to have a weekly chat— without teachers, thus making it totally unmonitored. The six kids, from varying walks of life, are hesitant at first. They each have their stories, but is it safe? Can they open up to one another? The room becomes dubbed the ARTT room, an acronym for “a room to talk,” and soon enough, their stories begin. As their connections develop and their words bridge divides, the students realize that sharing their stories could be the very thing they needed to give them the strength to handle circumstances that once made them feel so desperately alone.

Harbor Me is stunning. At once both a coming of age story and an exploration of how America’s political and social challenges affect children daily, Woodson’s words ground us firmly in the ARTT room as the kids struggle to comprehend both their identities as individuals as well as their places in society. These children are America’s children. They are OUR children- children affected by the headlines pervasive in our country today including immigration, deportation, incarcerated parents, and the black lives matter movement. These children are in our homes and schools, and their confidence and self worth is being shaken regularly due to government regulations, racial profiling and harmful ignorance. Through Woodson’s evocative prose and magical storytelling, we watch the children become safe harbors for one another, their initial apprehension slowly turning into compassion, connection and perhaps most importantly, courage.

Want the book? Get it here! Harbor Me, by Jacqueline Woodson. *This is an affiliate link. HEE received an advanced review copy of this book, but all opinions expressed herein are entirely our own.

Oh man! I am always look for the very best books for beginning readers, and this one is just hilarious! For a fun book thats easy to read and sure to elicit laughs, Snail and Worm is a must! It’s also a part of our list of easy chapter books. This one is a double whammy!

Some parents have dreams of their kids being doctors when they grow up. Some want their children to be engineers. Some hope for architects who will build remarkable structures all over the world, while still others hope for lawyers or judges who will create the rule of law.

What do I want my boys to be when they grow up? Sometimes I feel a bit sheepish saying this but, in my world, the answer is simple. I want them to grow up to be whatever makes them happy, of course. But, in all honesty, I want them to be good friends. I want them to grow up to be compassionate and loyal gentlemen, to be empathetic to others needs, to lend a hand when a colleague is struggling. I want them to be kind, and I know that building this foundation begins now, at their tender young ages of 3 and 5. If we can cultivate kindness in our little ones when they are young -- if we can truly make caring for others a priority and teach children what it means to be a good friend -- we will set them up to be kind and moral adults. And, I don't know about you, but I think our world could really use some upstanding, respectable and virtuous adults right now.

Our children are our future, so we should start investing in them now, when it truly counts. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we all worked towards a common goal of instilling kindness in our kids, if we taught them the importance of being good friends to those in their classrooms and communities? If we make this a priority, then guess what happens? They will too.

There are so many fabulous picture books about friendship that can help all of us make this dream a reality. These are books that can be read to both preschoolers and "big kids" alike -- and you may be surprised at how much they resonate with you, the adult, too. Here are some of Happily Ever Elephant's very favorite ones. Happy reading!

A Sick Day for Amos McGee, by Philip Stead and illustrated by Erin Stead: Amos, a zookeeper, spends time everyday with all of his animal friends at the zoo. He delights in being a friend to each of them, and he is sensitive to their unique needs. When Amos wakes up one morning too sick to get to the zoo, Amos's friends decide it may just be time they return the favor. This is single-handedly one of the best books out there to teach little ones about empathy and friendshp.

Hooray for Hat!, by Brian Won: This is a darling friendship story for your littlest readers! The story begins as an elephant wakes up and feels awfully grumpy. Alas, a present outside his door reveals a fun new hat, and it brightens elephant's mood considerably. What follows is an intro to several more grumpy animals, each in turn made happier when elephant and the others share the hat. This book perfectly illustrates the concept of paying it forward, teaching even the youngest readers that their simple actions can brighten the world around them.

My Friend is Sad, by Mo Willems: Each book in the Elephant and Piggie series is just fantastic, and we especially love how this one shows Piggie doing everything he can to cheer up his friend Gerald... but in disguise. What does Gerald truly need? Even though Piggie's antics were pretty perfect, all Gerald wanted was his best friend's company so the two could share the laughs together. So sweet, and so humorous! I especially love how this book distills a more complicated concept into bite size chunks even toddlers can understand.

Be a Friend, by Salina Yoon: In this sweet story we are introduced to a young mime, who never uses words to convey his emotions. He goes through his days in solitude until he is befriended by a little girl who catches his make-believe ball. The beauty of this story lies in the fact that Dennis's new friend never attempts to make Dennis speak. Instead, the readers see that their newfound friendship transcends words, and we can easily find ways to accept one another -- both for our similarities and our differences.

One, by Kathryn Otoshi: Red is a hothead who continuously picks on Blue. Though this bullying is witnessed by several other colors, no one is ready to stand up for Blue and tell Red to stop his taunting. But then One comes along, and One has no qualms about standing up to Red -- and in doing so, One teaches his friends a valuable lesson. At once a concept book on both colors and counting, the story more importantly provides a spring point for discussions on bullying, kindness, and inclusiveness.

The Rabbit Listened, by Cori Doerrfeld: Something bad has happened to Taylor: she cannot get over her devastation when a tower she worked so hard to construct crashes to the ground. Her friends try to help. They offer suggestions and unsolicited advice, trying everything in the books to get her to calm down. But only when the rabbit sits and listens -- just listens, quietly and calmly - does she begin to feel better. How I love this one!

Those Shoes, by Maribeth Boelts and illustrated by Noah Jones: Jeremy wants nothing more than the same pair of shoes that the rest of the kids at school wear. But, according to his grandma, Jeremy’s “wants” are not nearly as important as his “needs.” This is such a special story, one that masterfully sparks a discussion about wants and needs. More importantly, it shows with such a light touch how putting a friend's needs above your own wants is a magical, fulfilling action.

Be Kind, by Pat Zeitlow Miller and illustrated by Jen Hill: Tanesha spills grapejuice all over her new dress, and a classmate searches for just the right way to make her feel better. I love the way this sweet, simple story walks through actions any child can take to spread kindness throughout their classrooms and communities. Even small acts of kindness have big impacts and go a long way towards building friendships and connections.

The Invisible Boy, by Trudi Ludwig and illustrated by Patrice Barton: Brian is never seen or noticed by his classmates. He has no friends, and thus appears in the story devoid of color, making him invisible at school. Eventually a new child winds up in Brian's class and Brian is the first to reach out to him. When a bond forms between the two boys and they are teamed up to work on a class project, Brian finds a way to step out of the shadows and flourish. Not only does he make a new friend, but Barton's illustrations show how small acts of kindness fill Brian up with color until he is, quite literally, a vibrant force in his classroom.

Enemy Pie, by Derek Munson and illustrated by Tara Calahan King: Can your biggest enemy actually become your best friend? When Jeremy moves down the street, he becomes one little boy's biggest enemy. The boy's dad has a surefire way for his son to get rid of Jeremy once and for all - by giving Jeremy a piece of enemy pie. But, before the boy can give a piece to Jeremy, Dad has one rule: the two boys must spend the day together first. I love this book for challenging preconceived notions and helping kids develop a growth mindset that encourages them to learn new things about people in their classrooms.

A Hat for Mrs. Goldman, by Michelle Edwards and illustrated by G. Brian Karas: Mrs. Goldman knits hats for everyone in their neighborhood to help them stay warm during the harsh winter. But what happens when Sophia realizes that Mrs. Goldman is so busy knitting for everyone else and she has no hat of her own to wear? Sophia takes it upon herself to make Mrs. Goldman the perfect hat. I absolutely love this story of selflessness!

The Lion and the Bird, by Marianne Dubuc: When a lion finds a wounded bird in his garden, the lion gently takes him in and cares for him because the bird's flock has flown away. The two animals become fast friends, so when the bird departs with his flock the following autumn, the lion is heartbroken. This is such a tender portrayal of friendship and loyalty, with stunning illustrations to boot. The combination of simple text and exquisite pictures make this story sing -- and resonate deeply.

Each Kindness, by Jacqueline Woodson and illustrated by E.B. Lewis: Jacqueline Woodson is brilliant, and everything she writes turns to gold. This story packs a powerful punch and is especially fabulous for older elementary students. Chloe and her crew won't play with the new girl in school, totally casting Maya aside every time she tries to make friends. And one day, Maya just stops coming to school. When Chloe's teacher speaks to the class about how even small acts of kindness can have powerful effects, Chloe is remorseful for her actions. This is a must have for every classroom and home, sending an anti-bullying message that is as compelling as it is critical.

Big Friends, by Linda Sarah and illustrated by Benji Davies: Birt and Etho are best buds, using their big imaginations every time they play. But what happens when a new boy comes along and their two turns into three? Three is such a tough number for little kids - I see it first hand with my own boys on a regular basis. But I love how this story reminds kids that there is always room for one more -- and making a new friend in no way means you forget the old.

My Two Blankets, by Irena Kobald and illustrated by Freya Blackwood: In this gorgeous story, a girl called Cartwheel moves to a new country with her auntie, and in her new surroundings, everything is strange. Only a metaphorical blanket brings her comfort, until the day that she meets a new girl and the two embark on a friendship that begins with a smile. This story not only sheds a much-needed light on the refugee experience , but it reminds us that fear of "others" can dissipate so quickly by simply opening our hearts and minds. It can start with a smile, or even just a simple hello.

Some children have moral compasses so strong, you wonder if it is an innate part of their nature or whether their parents instilled in them this fundamental respect for fairness and justice. It never ceases to amaze me how even young people can experience overwhelming desires to solve some of society’s significant challenges. Perhaps that’s the reason why I loved Every Shiny Thing, the new beautiful middle grade novel by Cordelia Jensen and Laurie Morrison. Or perhaps it was the more complicated notion of what happens when these desires to “correct” come at the expense of your own better judgment. Either way, one thing is certain: Every Shiny Thing is a beautiful and intriguing new middle grade novel that I can’t wait to get on the shelf in our library.

Every Shiny Thing is the story of two unlikely friends, Lauren and Sierra, whose worlds collide when Sierra is sent to live with foster parents who happen to be Lauren’s neighbors. Lauren is grappling with her parents decision to send her autistic brother to a fancy boarding school out of town, and Sierra is struggling with being apart from her alcoholic mother. Both girls are lost- until they find each other. But when Lauren enlists Sierra in her plan to raise money to help less fortunate autistic children get the therapeutic services they require, her plan takes a turn towards the illegal— and their friendship takes a downturn too. Will Lauren’s desire for justice cost the girls their new bond?

Told both in powerful verse and authentic prose, Every Shiny Thing is a compelling look at privilege, a flawed health care system and the lengths we go to to please new friends. I love the unique lens through which Lauren views this injustice - children who require interventional services like occupational and physical therapy but do not have the funds to cover the recommended treatment. It’s a thought provoking and very real problem, and her struggle is understandable. Morrison handles Lauren's exploration authentically and with a light touch, especially when her excellent intentions quickly go bad. Similarly, Jensen tells Sierra's story through first person verse which simply sings, and her battle is also a familiar one for so many kids: straddling the fine line between pleasing a new friend or enlisting help when that same friend's behavior is out of control. A beautiful story tackling important issues, Every Shiny Thing gets two trunks up! You know it's a good one when you can't stop thinking about it weeks after you've finished the book.

Want the book? Get it here! Every Shiny Thing, by Laurie Morrison and Cordelia Jensen. *This is an affiliate link. HEE received a review copy of this book, but all opinions contained herein are expressly our own.

My heart has been tremendously heavy since the horrific tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School last week, a school so close to my own. There are so many things that need to be fixed in this country, so many problems we need to tackle from guns to the mental health crisis to funding for our public schools. As you know, I frequently turn to books for answers and support, but books, unfortunately, cannot solve our national gun crisis. You know what books CAN do, though? You know what their very purpose is? To serve as windows and mirrors for students and adults. To foster empathy in our children, provide safe spaces for children to explore daunting emotions, build a generation of globally aware and conscious kids, and help our young ones find themselves in stories so they don't feel so alone.

I want to highlight The Invisible Boy today, a phenomenal story written by Trudi Ludwig and illustrated by Patrice Barton. The Invisible Boy is about a child named Brian who is never seen or noticed by his classmates. He has no friends. He is never picked to be on a team at recess, never acknowledged by his teachers, never invited to birthday parties. And thus, he appears in the story devoid of color, making him invisible among his classmates. Eventually a new child comes to school and winds up in Brian's class. Brian is the first to reach out to him. When a bond forms between the two boys and they are teamed up to work on a class project, Brian finds a way to step out of the shadows and flourish. Not only does he make a new friend, but Barton's illustrations show how small acts of kindness fill Brian up with color until he is, quite literally, a vibrant force in his classroom.

The Invisible Boy is a phenomenal story, perfectly illustrating how one tiny act of kindness - one small act of acknowledgement or appreciation - can infuse our lives with color and have a significant impact on our self esteem. We need to be so darn certain that none of our children and none of our students are EVER made to feel nonexistent in our homes and schools. Feeling invisible can be just as damaging to a child's social and emotional well being as being teased and laughed at, and it is up to us, the adults, to model the virtues we want the next generation to inherit. This book beautifully conveys the importance of being kind and compassionate and of encouraging our children to befriend those in their classrooms who are too often overlooked. It also reminds us how important it is to get our kids and students involved in activities and clubs that will really allow their unique talents and abilities to flourish with like-minded children with whom they may be able to share a special bond. Feeling invisible can be destructive, and it is up to us to find these struggling children, help them, and show them how important they are in our homes, schools and communities.

In our elementary school, I read The Invisible Boy with each of my classes and gave the students a challenge: make sure no student in your class feels invisible. I remind them to be mindful of their fellow classmates, to look around, be kind, be compassionate. It takes work, and it is not always easy among students who can be -- lets face it -- be cliquey and catty. But it is important to give children constant reminders of how critical it is to be inclusive, to have kind hands, kind words and kind hearts.

We are the adults. We need to do something for these invisible kids, and we need to start by making sure that every child in our homes and classrooms feels heard, supported, and - most importantly - loved. The Invisible Boy is a must for your collections, and I can't rave about this book enough. Get it here, now: The Invisible Boy, by Trudi Ludwig.

Friendship is a journey, complete with laughter and tears and make believe and making up. We've all been there, and our children will experience this sometimes challenging but always rewarding journey too. Molly and Mae: A Friendship Journey, is a beautiful new book by Danny Parker with gorgeous illustrations by Freya Blackwood. The story is a lovely testament to friendship and all of its ups and downs, and it has quickly become a go-to read in our stack.

In Molly and Mae, two little girls meet on the platform of a train station. They connect instantly, playing hide and seek and other games as they await the train with their families. Upon boarding, however, their games turn into conflict, and the two girls turn away from each other. Will they be able to restart their relationship and enjoy the rest of the ride together?

I remember those trying days of childhood, when one minute a trusted companion had me squealing with glee and the next found me sobbing into my mother's lap because so-and-so said she would never be my friend again. I wish I had Molly & Mae then. I love the manner in which Parker and Blackwood use the train's journey as an extended metaphor of the ups and downs and starts and stops inherent in the journey of friendship. It was a perfect - if not masterful - comparison, and I love how the train signage truly grounds the reader into every scene of the story. Blackwood has fast become a favorite illustrator of mine, and her soft illustrations add tremendous significance to Parker’s spare text. Such a beauty!

Want the book? Get it here! Molly & Mae: A Friendship Journey, by Danny Parker. HEE received an advanced review copy of the book, but all opinions expressed herein are entirely our own.

Every once in a while you pick up a new book and the first time you read it through, the combination of words and pictures speak to you so deeply, it just makes you breathe in and say "Yes. This." This is exactly what happened to me the first time I read On the Night of the Shooting Star, written by Amy Hest and illustrated by Jenni Desmond. I can't pinpoint why I loved it so much, but the manner in which this story tackles the contradictory feelings of loneliness and connection was so emotionally resonant and a story I think any and every child will be able to relate to and connect with as well.

In On the Night of the Shooting Star, Dog and Bunny reside on opposite sides of a fence, living virtually parallel lives. They see each other every day, but the two never talk or even acknowledge one another. They care though, as evidenced by wistful glances onto the other's property to check and see what may be happening on the other side of the fence. Seasons come and go, but one evening, as both are outside gazing into the night sky over their homes, the two witness a shooting star. And that miraculous site may just be the thing to help bring these animals together.

It doesn't matter how "popular" or well-liked you think your child is. Everyone struggles with feelings of loneliness, and everyone has looked across a fence-- or a classroom or a quad or a playground-- and felt a pang of sadness when they realize there's one person-- or even a group of people- they would love to connect with. But it seems awfully challenging, right? Reaching out isn't easy. In fact, it can be downright hard. The rewards though? Tremendous. Use On the Night of the Shooting Star to remind little ones that these feelings of solitude are universal-- but we can't overcome them until we make an effort and force ourselves just a little out of our comfort zone. Sometimes, even the tiniest step is all it takes. Absolutely love this one.

Accepting imperfection is not an easy task for many adults, much less many children. Flexibility, too, is something that so many of us struggle with. Learning to let go, to embrace the flaws and blemishes that inevitability mar our daily lives, can be a fearful journey, one that must come from deep within ourselves before we can learn to appreciate the sweet in the seemingly sour. Perhaps this is the reason why we so love Grandmother Thorn, the beautiful debut picture book by Katey Howes, with gorgeous, multimedia illustrations by Rebecca Hahn.

The titular character, Grandmother Thorn, treasures her beautiful garden- it is pristine and perfect, with not a twig out of place. But when an unwanted plant begins to sprout without her permission, Grandmother Thorn begins to break down. With the help of a dear friend and the passage of time, Grandmother Thorn may just learn that some things in life are beyond anyone's control- and that life's greatest disappointments can also give rise to the greatest gifts.

What a gem this book is. Grandmother Thorn powerfully conveys the message that beauty can be found where we least expect it-- or want it-- when we learn to let go of our stubborn ways. The story reads as if it's a time-tested classic or an age-old folk tale, with rich characters, lush prose and not a word out of place. This is an especially fabulous story for upper elementary and middle school students- sparking important discussions on the meaning of perfection, friendship and embracing fear. A gorgeous debut -- two trunks up!

Having grown up myself on a 141st Street in South Florida, I about died when I first glimpsed the beautiful cover of this book, making its way from Instagram blogger to Instagram blogger so many months ago. I immediately requested a copy, and I was delighted I did. We've all heard the age-old phrase, "home is where the heart is," right? Well, Karina Yan Glaser's new book, The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street, is the epitome of that saying.

The Vanderbeeker family has lived in a Harlem brownstone on 141st Street forever, so when their reclusive landlord tells them they have just days to move out as their lease will not be renewed, the siblings take matters into their own hands. The five Vanderbeeker kids act quickly, coming up with one crazy antic after another - they will stop at nothing to convince their landlord just how special their family is and why they need to remain in their home. Will they be forced to leave nonetheless? You have to read it to find out!

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street has an old fashioned, throwback feel, even though it is set in the modern day. The Vanderbeeker siblings are so full of heart, and the book harkens back to simpler times when family, relationships and good old pluck trumped gadgets, electronics and cell phones. Two things struck me the most here- the manner in which the siblings worked so creatively as a team - using nothing but their hearts and minds- to save the home they love so dearly, and (2) the relationships these siblings had with each other, their parents, and even more importantly, their community. Glaser beautifully depicts - if not nails- the community aspect of her book. Harlem comes alive, as do it's inhabitants, with the neighborhood becoming as much a force in the story as the characters -- including the Brownstone itself. Heartwarming and fun, this will be devoured by elementary students and I can't wait to get it into our library!

Want the book? Get it here! The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street, by Karina Yan Glaser. HEE received an advanced review copy of this book from the publisher, but all opinions contained herein are expressly are our own.

Attention, little explorers! Whether your kiddos are fans of outer space or the deep dark sea, one thing is certain: they will adore Hannah Barnaby's newest picture book, Garcia & Colette Go Exploring. With adorable illustrations by Andrew Joyner, this book hits all the right notes, highlighting themes all of our kids love including adventure and, most importantly, friendship.

In Garcia & Colette Go Exploring, the two title characters are having quite the disagreement. Garcia the bunny think space is the coolest, but Colette the fox thinks the sea is where it's at. In order to determine whether space or sea will come out on top, the two decide they must go exploring... alone. Garcia builds a rocket and Collette builds a submarine, and the two embark on their own fantastic adventures to prove to the other that their chosen location is the best. But as they travel, both discover that winning may not be the best answer- especially if it comes at the expense of friendship.

Garcia & Colette Go Exploring is just the sweetest, with illustrations that can't help but bring a smile to your face. I love the parallel structure in which the book is written as it so perfectly emphasizes the differences in each character's journey but also conveys the loneliness each feels without the other. But more importantly, I adore what happens when Garcia and Colette are reunited. Rather than lie and boast about their adventures, they practice honesty and are not ashamed to admit the shortfalls of their respective journeys. It can be quite challenging for our little ones to refrain from "one upping" their friends, but Garcia & Colette Go Exploring handles what could be a sticky situation just perfectly. Even better? The compromise the characters come to at the end of the book.. and the recognition that a friend at your side makes every journey (even one that wasn't your first choice) that much better. Two enthusiastic trunks up!

Who am I? Where did I come from? When does childhood end and the next phase begin? These are just some of the perplexing questions our children grapple with from the time they are young-- but in all honesty, do these questions ever really go away? Do we ever stop wondering who we are, and when and how the next chapter of our lives will unfold?

These are the issues the protagonist in Laurel Snyder's startlingly beautiful new novel, Orphan Island, ponders throughout the story. Young Jinny is one of nine children -- orphans, to be exact-- living on a mysterious, idyllic island. Don't be fooled, though. While all seems perfect in paradise, there is one day of the year when a strange green boat glides to the shore to drop off a new child... and take the oldest one away. When Jinny's best friend Deen is taken at this "Changing," Jinny suddenly becomes the group's "elder" and must care for the new arrival. Jinny knows her responsibilities as the oldest kid on the island, but will she abide by the "rules" as she counts down to the inevitable arrival of the green boat to take her away, or will she buck tradition and mess up the island's peace in the process?

Orphan Island is a meditation on growing up -- on what happens when we ask tough questions and realize we may never get answers. It is thoughtful, wise and, perhaps more importantly, unwavering in its honesty. Jinny is a narrator we root for- but one who is also, at times, a bit unlikable. Yet even as we may disapprove of certain actions she takes or choices she makes, we never cease to understand her motivations. Smack dab in the middle of that awkward transition between childhood and adolescence, Jinny is undoubtedly flawed. Her flaws, though, make her story all the more compelling. She is the reason you will fall into Orphan Island and not be able to put it down. Her internal dissonance - fear of losing the island's stability while simultaneously yearning for something beyond its stagnancy - will strike a chord and resonate with your children who will relate to her innermost thoughts and longings. Orphan Island is contemplative, lyrical, and a brilliant study in character. A must read for your tweens.

Want the book? Get it here! Orphan Island, by Laurel Snyder. *This is an affiliate link. We received a copy of this book from the publisher, but all opinions are our own.

If you love quiet, gentle stories that will tug just a little at your heart strings and stay with you long after the final page is closed, you must check out Pandora, written and illustrated by Victoria Turnbull. If you love The Lion and the Bird by Marianne Dubuc, this tender story will capture your heart in much the same way.

Pandora is a fox who lives alone in a world of broken things, carefully repairing what she can and breathing life into the lifeless. Though she has a home, made with care out of the things people have left behind, no one ever comes to visit her. But then one day, a wounded bird falls from the sky with a broken wing. Pandora helps the bird grow stronger and stronger-- but what happens when the bird is strong enough to fly away on its own?

The beauty of Pandora is it's subtlety in speaking to the need for connection sparking so brightly within each of us. Her story is a journey of things lost and found, hearts broken and mended, hope diminished and renewed. The wonderfully complex art is a perfect match for Turnbull's spare prose. Though muted to start- likely to reflect Pandora's isolation in a land replete with broken material goods- the illustrations fill with increasing brightness as the story progresses, highlighting the impact that love and kinship can have on our lives. A meditative story on the power of connection to heal our loneliest days, Pandora is a story to treasure and pull out on days when your children need to be reminded of the power of love.

Want the book? Get it here! Pandora, by Victoria Turnbull. *This is an affiliate link. HEE received a copy of this book from the publisher; however, all opinions expressed herein are our own.

One smile. One smile can break boundaries and illuminate the darkness of the unknown. In no uncertain terms, one smile -- one tiny, simple smile -- can be life changing. Sometimes we forget how easy it is, in the midst of too much yelling or too many other deafening noises, to smile at someone who needs it. But this one simple action can move mountains, and it is so important to remember that for so many people, a smile may be all it takes to carry them through a day.

One of my insta pals (but I can't remember WHO! please remind me!) recommended My Two Blankets, by Irena Kobald, with illustrations by Freya Blackwood. In this gorgeous story, a girl called Cartwheel moves to a new country with her auntie, and in her new surroundings, everything is strange. Only a metaphorical blanket brings her comfort, until the day that she meets a new girl and the two embark on a friendship that begins with a smile. Soon Carthweel's friend is teaching her new words and helping her acclimate to her new world. And as Cartwheel becomes more and more comfortable, she begins to weave a new blanket, one that grows warmer and more comfortable every day.

My Two Blankets is beautiful and touching, and it sheds a much-needed light on the refugee experience as well as what it means to be a stranger in a strange land. As a parent, there is nothing I want more than to instill in my boys the importance of being global citizens, citizens who celebrate diversity and welcome the opportunity to learn from those of different backgrounds. It is so easy to fear "other," but this heartfelt and touching story reminds us that "other" is something we can so easily embrace if we simply open our hearts and minds. It can start with a smile. A hello. The extension of a hand. And sometimes, that's all it takes to change a life. My Two Blankets is a must read multicultural friendship story, especially in today's times. A beautiful, moving story that gets two huge trunks up.

I adore books that turn everything you think you know about books upside down - books that experiment with form and art and prose in a manner so fresh and unique, they make you feel as if you are discovering a book for the very first time. SHY, written and illustrated by Deborah Friedman, is one such book. Aside from its sweet story and gorgeous illustrations, SHY offersa creative perspective and an especially unique manner of handling the various elements of story. We immediately fell in love, and this was undoubtedly one of our favorite picture books of 2016.

In SHY, the title character, Shy, remains unseen in the gutter of the book, too shy to confront his fear of having to interact with others. Shy loves birds, though, but has only ever read about them. One day, Shy hears and sees a beautiful bird flying near him, but he is too nervous to leave his home. Will he eventually find the courage to leave? Or will he stay shy -- and hidden -- forever? And if he does venture out of his home, will he even show us his face? Or will he try to stay hidden among other animals he meets along the way?

SHY is a gentle, beautiful book that is especially perfect for any of your little ones who are bashful - or at least shy in certain situations. It's one of those books you want to always have close by for its uniqueness, its artistry and its ability to touch so many readers. Themuted color palette transforms based on Shy's emotional state- pale at his shyest, brighter at his bravest- yet it never fails to mesmerize the reader and pull him right into the story. Young readers will be eager to find Shy within the pages of the gutter, and after the book is finished, will eagerly flip right back to the front of the story to see what clues they may have missed along the way. A glorious, tender read- one not to be missed.

Every so often you read a book with such a fascinating and unique premise that it sticks with you long after the final chapter. You toss its themes around, wonder how the author came up with the imaginative plot, and marvel at the intriguing characterization and story. Beautiful Blue World by Suzanne LaFleur was one such novel. I was fortunate to receive an advanced review copy a couple of months ago, and I devoured the story in only two sittings (which says A LOT considering I have two small boys). I haven't stopped thinking about it since.

Twelve year old Mathilde lives in Sofrande, a fictional town, with her parents and two younger sisters. Times are troubling – Sofrande is at war, meaning food is scarce and residents are in constant fear of bombings. As long as Mathilde is with her best friend Megs, Mathilde believes all will be fine. But when the army begins recruiting children to help with the war effort in exchange for money for their families, Mathilde knows that Megs will not only take the test, but pass it. Matilde can't imagine life without her best friend -- but she can't imagine her days without her family, either. So should she take the exam too? And if she does take it, what will actually become of her if she passes?

Beautiful Blue World is an intriguing exploration of war and a fascinating portrait of what it may look like if children were involved in the war effort. How would their skills be utilized and harnessed? What do they possess in terms of vision and ability that adults may not? Would children be exploited or empowered? In Mathilde, LaFleur has created a compassionate and nuanced protagonist whose voice, tinged with both timidity and bravery, is written to perfection. Mathilde is one of those characters whose resourcefulness you want to teach your children, whose loyalty is unsurpassed, and whose penchant for kindness is one we all should model. This, of course, begs the question -- what happens when her loyalties are questioned? You'll have to read it to find out. A beautiful, moving story, and one that I can't wait to pick up a second time. I'm already eagerly anticipating the sequel. Bravo to LaFleur – two enthusiastic trunks up!

Oh man. Random acts of kindness? Check. Friendship stories? Check. Messages of empathy? Check, check, check. Philip Stead hits yet another home run with his latest release, Samson in the Snow. I swear, every book he writes is magical; they all find a way to wrap themselves around my heart and never let go. And I'm happy to report that his newest beauty follows perfectly in that tradition. If you like gentle stories about what it means to give, love and celebrate, this one is for you.

Samson in the Snow is one of those quiet tales that tells the story of Samson, a giant woolly mammoth, who spends his time tending to a field of dandelions. When a red bird comes along looking for some yellow flowers for a sad friend, Samson is happy to share his blooms--- and as she flies away, he is left wondering what it would be like to have a friend. He falls asleep, and when he wakes up the world is covered in snow. Samson immediately worries about how cold the red bird must be, and he sets off to find her to make sure she is warm. As he wanders along on his journey, he may just find that warmth can be found in more ways than one.

This book is such a perfect reminder that things happen- beauty happens - when we least expect them. Stead is a master of pacing (several wordless spreads here punctuate the story perfectly) and creating gorgeous characters that expertly match and complement wondrous illustrations. His prose is complex yet unadorned, and it always manages to be filled with heart and wisdom. This story of friendship is one that will stick with you long after the book is closed. Use this title to teach your kids about how small acts of kindness can move mountains and how gracious acts of empathy can change more than just the person on the receiving end of that action. Thank you, Philip Stead, for giving children and adults alike another exquisite treasure in Samson in the Snow. It couldn't have come into the world at a more perfect time, and it will be cherished in our house forever more.

Want the book? Get it here! Samson in the Snow, by Philip Stead. *This is an affiliate link. I received an advanced review copy from the publisher, yet all opinions expressed herein are my own.